Just Ask Terry

I have a fungal infection on my lower back.

Q. Dear Terry, “I have a fungal infection on my lower back. I have been putting tea tree oil on it, but it does not want to go away. It has been there for quite some time now but has not grown in size. What are your suggestions? I would like to avoid any oral or topical medications that might have side effects.” — Steve B., Vineland, NJ

A. Dear Steve, Fungal infections can be caused by a variety of factors and I have some recommendations that may help. I encourage you to discuss any supplement use with the healthcare practitioner that diagnosed your fungal infection, as they may have additional insight.

Some of the best natural antimicrobial agents I am aware of are the oils of cinnamon, thyme, clove, and oregano. Each of these are powerful on their own, and when combined can have a very dramatic effect against harmful bacteria, yeast, fungi, and other infections.

Thyme contains powerful compounds, including carvacrol and thymol, which exhibit strong antifungal properties. Cinnamon is rich in compounds called cinnamaldehydes which have been shown to fight staph infections and attack fungal cells by destroying their cell wall. Clove has been used to treat Candida infections and contains eugenol – which has broad-spectrum antifungal activities. Oregano is probably one of the best known natural antibiotics used for bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. Oregano also contains carvacrol and thymol, which are very potent multi-antimicrobial compounds.

Make sure to choose concentrated plant oils that are approved for internal use. I suggest taking a total of 75 mg of these oils three times per day internally. Unlike essential oils for massage and aromatherapy, these plant oils are tested and “fingerprinted” based on specific molecular makeup, species, marker compounds, purity, and safety for internal medicinal use. The extraordinary potency of these tested plant oils allows for relatively low doses, but very powerful health benefits. If you did want to apply these fingerprinted oils topically as well, it would be safe to do so.

Another natural medicine I think would be of great benefit is propolis. Propolis is made from the compounds gathered from trees and other plants, and then modified by the bees’ own enzymes as they process the material, mix it with beeswax, and make it into a protective antibacterial glue and sealant. Research has shown that GH2002 propolis is a powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. When choosing a propolis, look for one that comes from a controlled and managed bee population so the material provides consistent levels of fungal fighting compounds. Look for a clinically studied propolis that is purified and contains no beeswax, as it can interfere with absorption. I would take 100 mg once or twice daily.